About me

Welcome to Samsaraa Massage Therapy and Ayurveda a lifestyle blog that shares my passion for health, travel, food and Ayurveda. Though I am a licensed massage therapist and Ayurvedic bodyworker in Boston, MA, the information posted here is not intended to substitute the advice of a medical professional. Thank you for visiting and feel free to ask any questions or to just say hello!

Good Morning! I wanted to share a piece of Vedic Heritage literature I am reading on self identity, it is quite interesting. " Formation of self identity is seen as a process of separating from one's family origin and living independently. In the American Society, this theme is played out at different ages. Children are encouraged to think independently, form opinions, and make choices. When conflicts arise within their peer group, older children are allowed to fend for themselves. Children often engage in activities among themselves excluding adults. Among teenagers, separation is fostered through strong affiliations. A culture fostered autonomy is seen as the adolescent is encouraged to work, earn, and pay for some of his expenses. A waning of familial bonds is also seen at this time. The end of adolescence comes with the expectation that the child will move away from home and live independently. As adults they are given rights and in turn society expects them to fulfill responsibilities.""In contrast to American culture, Indian society, with its foundations in Vedic culture provides an environment in which the development of self identity is influenced in a different way. Relationships between people are highly interdependent and hierarchical. The individual is considered independent and an essential and integral part of a larger social structure. thus, one looks at oneself in the context of one's immediate family, especially with respect to parents and siblings: and also, to an extent, with respect to one's extended family, namely uncles, aunts, and cousins. In an Indian family, the well being of one member lies in the well being of all." I found this last sentence to really resonate with me. Have a great Sunday with your Family!